'This Girl Golfs' at Goodwood

The day is an international initiative that celebrates those already playing while also encouraging women new to the sport to give it a go.

Golf At Goodwood hosted a ‘This Girl Golf’s’ event in line with a national programme of events that included a range of activities, including a mini Pilates taster, warm up at the Academy, rounds on the Park course and a BBQ complete with Prosecco on the Hotel Cedar Lawn. Rohnish hosted a pop-up shop and fashion show and prizes for the 18-hole competition were presented by European Tour player and Golf At Goodwood ambassador Holly Aitcheson.

Additionally, The Academy held complimentary 45-minute sessions from 10am to 4pm, run by Academy Manager Chris McDonnell, which were for both Ladies who had never played before and those coming back a bit rusty. Chris went through the basics of technique and swing and finished off by putting these new skills to the test, with a variety of challenges on both the driving range and par 3 course.

For many of those who attended it was a chance to try a game they had previously perceived as being inaccessible.

One lady who tried The Academy session said; “It was so lovely to come today, enjoy the relaxed environment in such a beautiful area. At the start I couldn't even hit the ball, but by the end of the session I felt I was doing well.” Another commented that she was hoping she would now have the confidence to play alongside her husband.

One of the Ladies, who travelled all the way from Berkshire having never played golf at Goodwood before, exclaimed; “This is the first time I have played at Goodwood and I absolutely loved it!”

Highlighting the friendly, relaxed and social side to the game of golf, the day ended with ladies who had never before met exchanging numbers and organising times to get together and practice.